Martin Creek Lake State Park
Peace Among the Pines
Just 20 miles southeast of Longview you’ll find a peaceful place in the East Texas woods: Martin Creek Lake State Park. Fish for bass or catfish, walk the trails, or sit quietly and watch a sunset over the lake.
Things to Do
We offer year-round fishing, camping, paddling, lake swimming, hiking and biking, water-skiing, picnicking, geocaching and nature photography. Reserve our picnic pavilion for your next group gathering.
If you plan to swim, read through our swimming safety tips before your visit. We do not have lifeguards.
Note: This county is under a quarantine to prevent the spread of the emerald ash borer to other areas of the state. This means movement of firewood is restricted. Please buy firewood where you burn it to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Fishing & Boating
The power plant on Martin Creek Lake keeps waters warm year-round. Anglers reel in largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, yellow catfish, tilapia and sunfish.
We have a boat ramp, lighted fishing pier and a fish cleaning station. We also rent canoes.
You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore or pier in a Texas state park. Bring your own fishing gear or borrow ours!
Many fishing tournaments are held at the park in the winter. During these tournaments, the boat ramp area may be crowded.
Get detailed fishing and lake information for Martin Creek Lake.
Trails
We have nearly four miles of hike and bike trails. Follow the footsteps of early Texans as you explore the park.
The Old Henderson Road Loop traces a former trade route for travelers between Henderson and Shreveport. On the 1.5-mile Harmony Hill Loop, look for remnants of the community of Harmony Hill, now a Nationally Registered Historic District.
Learn more on our Trails Information page.
Camping
Choose from campsites with water and electricity or primitive campsites situated on an island. We also have screened shelters and cabins.
Ranger Programs
We offer programs on the park’s history and nature. Check our Events page for the schedule. Contact the park to arrange a program for your group.
Learn more about the park on our Nature and History pages, and by downloading our Interpretive Guide | PDF.
Support state parks by donating to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation.
Area Attractions
Nearby attractions include Starr Family Home State Historic Site, Texas State Railroad, and the historic cities of Marshall, Longview, Kilgore, Carthage and Henderson.
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